Sinoville CPF warns of increasing banking fraud under pensioners
Fraudulent phone calls or SMSs often appear to be legit but scammers use them to obtain personal information, passwords or one-time PINs to commit banking fraud and transfer funds to their own accounts.
The Sinoville CPF urges pensioners to be cautious of online banking fraud.
“Elderly people and pensioners sadly often fall victim to fraud,” said Sinoville CPF spokesperson Lizette du Plooy.
“Fraudulent phone calls or SMSs often appear to be legit. However, scammers use it to obtain personal information, passwords or one-time PINs to commit banking fraud and transfer funds to their own account.”
Du Plooy warned elderly people to never share their personal information with anyone.
“Confidential information which may lead to fraud is sometimes retrieved via phone calls and bank accounts are cleared of pension money.
“Elderly people should never trust strangers with sensitive information as it might be used against them by scammers.”
She suggested residents adhere to the following safety precautions to prevent banking fraud:
– Never share your confidential information.
– Never forward your card number and expiry date in emails or on WhatsApp.
– Scammers can be very persuasive; do not trust strangers.
– Do not click on links sent to you via email, SMS or WhatsApp, your bank will never send you a link to log in to your banking profile.
– Ask your family for assistance with banking and online purchases if you feel uncertain or threatened.
– Always report banking fraud to your bank immediately.
Elderly abuse in any form is a crime in South Africa and can be reported to your nearest police station or by calling the Crime Stop number on 08600 10111.
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